Roadmap for Implementing Color Matching Quality Control for Indigo Presses

Goal: Establish a color-matching quality control system for Indigo Presses utilizing Print Inspector for process control and ChromaChecker Capture for spot color matching.

Assumptions:

• Indigo Presses are stable and consistent as reported in Print Inspector.
• Necessary hardware (ChromaChecker Capture with spot instrument) is available.
• Access to press serial numbers and API keys/secrets for authentication.

Prep Items:

1. Gather Press Information:
   • Collect press serial numbers for all relevant Indigo Presses.
   • Obtain API keys and authentication secrets with Print Inspector and ChromaChecker Capture.
2. Software Installation & Setup:
   • Install ChromaChecker Capture software on the designated workstation.
   • Calibrate and profile the spot instrument used with ChromaChecker Capture according to manufacturer instructions.

Implementation Items:

1. Instrument Baselining:
   • Perform an initial baselining of the spot instrument in ChromaChecker Capture.
   • Establish a regular monthly check to ensure the instrument's consistency.
2. Create Master Color Library:
   • Define and create a comprehensive Master Color Library within ChromaChecker Capture.
     • Include all standard spot colors used by the press.
     • Measure and record the spectral data of each color using the spot instrument.
3. Export Colors for Designers:
   • Export the Master Color Library from ChromaChecker Capture in a format suitable for designer use (e.g., Pantone Color Books, digital swatch libraries).
   • Provide clear guidelines to designers on using the approved color library.
4. Create Substrate Library:
   • Create a comprehensive Substrate Library within Print Inspector.
     • Include all commonly used substrates for the Indigo Presses.
     • Define and record the relevant properties of each substrate (e.g., grammage, coating).

Production Items

1. Determine ICC Profile:
   • Identify and document the specific ICC profile used by each Indigo Press.
   • Ensure consistent use of the correct ICC profile throughout the print production process.
2. Run Color Match Feature:
   • Utilize the Color Match feature within Print Inspector to predict and simulate the printed appearance of colors on various substrates.
   • Compare predicted results with actual measurements from ChromaChecker Capture.
   • Refine press settings and color profiles as needed based on comparisons.
3. Update Look-Up Tables (LUTs):
   • Regularly update the LUTs within the Indigo Presses based on the results of the Color Match feature and actual print measurements.
   • This ensures accurate color reproduction across different substrates and press configurations.

Monitoring & Maintenance:

• Regularly monitor press performance and color consistency using Print Inspector and associated Dashboards.
• Define periodic color checks using ChromaChecker Capture to verify color accuracy and identify any deviations.
• Update color libraries, and refine LUTs to maintain optimal color quality.

Benefits:

• Improved color accuracy and consistency across all Indigo Presses.
• Reduced waste and rework due to color discrepancies.
• Enhanced customer satisfaction through improved print quality.
• Increased efficiency and productivity in the print production process.
• Data-driven approach to color management enables proactive adjustments and continuous improvement.